Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception can be used by a woman to prevent pregnancy after having unprotected sex. The emergency contraceptive pill (known as the “morning after pill”) can be taken up to three days (72 hours) after you have had unprotected sex.

If it is taken within 24 hours of having unprotected sex, the emergency contraceptive pill is effective in preventing 95% of pregnancies. However, the later the emergency contraceptive pill is taken, the lower the success rate.

Some Lambeth pharmacists give emergency contraception for free to those who are under 18 years of age, including teenagers who are under 16. The emergency contraceptive pill is also available free of charge from most family planning clinics and the Practice. If you need emergency contraception whilst the pharmacies, sexual health clinics and Practice are closed, you can also contact SELDOC, our out of hours service, on 020 8693 9066.

If you are over 16 years of age, you can buy the emergency contraceptive pill over-the-counter at most pharmacies for around £26.

If you would like information about where to get the “morning after pill” please contact NHS 111 open 24 hours a day. The availability of these services may be reduced over bank holiday periods.

The emergency contraceptive pill should not be used as a regular method of contraception. If you would like general advice on contraception please make an appointment with the practice nurse. Free condoms are available from the practice Reception.